Chief Kellogg Purges Fire Department
Seattle's fire chief suspends two captains amidst allegations of insubordination and secret maneuvering against his leadership.
The story, cleaned up
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Captain A. B. Hunt, of fire engine company No. 1, and Captain Alvin Miller, of chemical engine company No. 2, were suspended yesterday by Chief Kellogg for general insubordination and disrespect to superior officers. Chief Kellogg requested Captain Hunt to resign, but Hunt refused, resulting in his immediate suspension. The chief believes the refusal of the board of aldermen to confirm his reappointment was driven by false rumors spread by these captains. Although the mayor questioned the chief's judgment, suggesting personal favoritism, commissioners stood by Kellogg’s decision to maintain discipline within the department.
“I only wish the councilmen had given me a fighting chance by making known their objections.”
Internal friction between civic leadership and department heads, often played out through accusations of favoritism or 'insubordination,' remains a recurring theme in Seattle’s political history, echoing contemporary debates over public oversight and institutional culture.
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